Making Music Nashville Style

Thanks to the encouragement of a visionary career educator, Lois Sortedahl, Making Music Nashville Style was created in early 2010. Jeff has developed an interactive, real-time, professionally guided songwriting experience that targets elementary students (and now adults as well). The program was an immediate hit and has grown by word of mouth every year since.. The kids learn songwriting skills with Jeff and explore team building, public speaking and creative engagement, finishing off with an all--school concert of their songs. Jeff emphasizes a level playing field this way - "No ball hogs, no bench-warmers, no bosses and no flunkies. The song is king and everyone - everyone - is a contributor." 

Parents, teachers and students have raved about the residency’s results, sometimes with tears in their eyes. A typical comment:

 Penny Husher: You have been such a blessing to the students of McNabb Elementary. The kids are still talking about you and how you taught them to write music. You are a special person. Thank you again for sharing your talent and love of music with not only the kids but with us, teachers, as well. I felt so honored to listen to you and your friends at your concert the following night. You have brought a great deal of joy to our lives. Blessings along your journeys. (McNaab Elementary School, Paducah, Kentucky)

 

Terri Anderson :
If you are looking for a program that builds kiddos self-esteem, promotes new friendships and teamwork and really solidifies the classroom and school “community”, THIS IS IT! Can’t articulate the magnitude of ‘warm fuzzies’ kids, staff, and parents walk away with! My kiddo was part of the inaugural program and this remains his (yes my male, never sings child) FAVORITE school experience! (Afton-Lakeland Elementary School, Stillwater, MN)

Presented at multiple schools and multiple years in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Chicago, Florida, Tennessee and Kentucky, Making Music is available in your school district. Funding is often grant-based, sometimes with PTA/PTO assistance and occasional private giving. There are also options for Nashville area schools to have Jeff in the classroom at no charge, thanks to the Nashville Musicians Association's Special Performance Fund. Feel free to inquire.

Contact Jeff

Jeff Dayton is at YouTube.com/jeffdaytonmusic